Catalonia supermarket strikes called for Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve

The UGT union has called for strikes in supermarkets across Catalonia on December 24 and December 31, coinciding with Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. The industrial action targets major retail chains, including Bon Preu, Sorli, La Sirena, Condis, Aldi, and BonÀrea, potentially affecting approximately 22,000 employees.

The dispute stems from stalled negotiations regarding a new collective bargaining agreement between unions and employers' associations GEPSAC and CEDAC. A primary point of contention is wage increases to combat the rising cost of living. UGT is demanding a minimum annual salary increase of 4% through 2027 and an annual inflation-linked revision clause, arguing that previous agreements resulted in a 2.1% loss of purchasing power.

In addition to wage demands, the union is seeking a reduction in the working day. As a precursor to the December strikes, UGT has scheduled a demonstration for October 20 at the Foment del Treball headquarters in Barcelona. While the strike affects several major chains, it does not include Mercadona or Lidl, which operate under different agreements, nor does it impact municipal markets or small local shops.